Veteran Announcer's Stunned Reaction to UConn's Buzzer-Beater Delights Fans

Bill Raftery's silence and exclamations after the Huskies' improbable last-second win over Duke went viral on social media.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 6:21pm

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An abstract expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, with rapid brushstrokes capturing the dynamic motion and energy of a basketball game-winning shot, the players' faces and details dissolving into a colorful, chaotic blur.The stunned silence and exuberant reaction of veteran announcer Bill Raftery encapsulated the shock and excitement of UConn's improbable last-second victory over Duke.Indianapolis Today

Sports announcer Bill Raftery's stunned reaction to the University of Connecticut's dramatic last-second victory over Duke University in the NCAA tournament went viral on social media, with many fans delighted by the veteran broadcaster's stunned silence followed by excited exclamations about the Huskies' improbable game-winning shot.

Why it matters

Raftery's reaction captured the shock and excitement of the moment, resonating with viewers who experienced the same emotions watching the thrilling finish. The viral clip also highlighted Raftery's iconic broadcasting style and long career calling some of college basketball's most memorable games.

The details

With Duke leading by two points and just 10 seconds remaining, UConn's Silas Demary Jr. hit two free throws to tie the game. As Duke tried to run out the clock, UConn's Braylon Mullins stole the ball and launched a 35-foot shot at the buzzer that found the net, giving the Huskies a stunning victory. CBS announcer Ian Eagle made the call as Raftery sat in stunned silence for 13 seconds before exclaiming, 'Utterly impossible... The deflection. The reaction. And then the MAJOR ONIONS out of Indiana.'

  • The game-winning shot was made as time expired in the NCAA tournament matchup on March 29, 2026.
  • Raftery's viral reaction occurred immediately after the final buzzer sounded.

The players

Bill Raftery

A veteran college basketball announcer who has called games for CBS Sports since 1981 and is known for his colorful and enthusiastic broadcasting style.

Braylon Mullins

A freshman guard for the University of Connecticut Huskies who hit the game-winning 35-foot shot at the buzzer to defeat Duke.

Silas Demary Jr.

A UConn player who hit two free throws in the final seconds to tie the game and set up the Huskies' dramatic comeback.

Grant Hill

A former Duke basketball star and current CBS Sports analyst who provided commentary alongside Raftery during the game.

Ian Eagle

The lead CBS Sports announcer who called the final seconds of the UConn-Duke game.

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What they’re saying

“Utterly impossible... The deflection. The reaction. And then the MAJOR ONIONS out of Indiana.”

— Bill Raftery, CBS Sports Announcer

“We were all just trying to get the ball out of whoever had the ball in their hands and trying to make a play on the ball. Silas made an incredible, incredible play, and everything else just happened as it is.”

— Braylon Mullins, UConn Freshman Guard

What’s next

Raftery and the CBS Sports crew will be on hand in Indianapolis, Indiana to call the NCAA Final Four, where there could be another moment to rival the drama and excitement of UConn's buzzer-beater over Duke.

The takeaway

Bill Raftery's iconic broadcasting style and passionate reactions have made him a beloved figure among college basketball fans. His stunned silence followed by enthusiastic exclamations perfectly captured the shock and thrill of UConn's improbable last-second victory, resonating with viewers and sparking a viral moment on social media.